JOBS will be safeguarded at a slate quarry if planners approve an application to extend the site.

Bosses at the Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda have submitted the plans with Gwynedd Council to exploit major new seams and extend the life of the site by more than 15 years.

More than 200 people work at the quarry whose future was threatened earlier this year after a major rock fall.

Recommending approval subject to conditions Gwynedd Council officers said the application proposes “the realignment and extension of the current workings in order to extract high quality roofing slates and other slate products including sawn slate slabs and architectural material”.

In a report Aled Davies, head of regulatory services said: “There is unlikely to be any apparent change in site working conditions with moderate change to the visual impact of the workings within the overall setting of the quarry landscape.

“There are no overriding planning policy issues sufficient to warrant refusal of planning permission, and issues relating to noise, dust and environmental controls are well established on this site.

“The quarry will continue to exploit high quality reserves of slate for roofing, sawn slabs, architectural material and other uses and in doing so, will secure long-term employment opportunities in the area with a direct and significant contribution to the local economy.

“It is considered the proposal will not have a detrimental impact on the setting of the National Park.”

The report adds consultation with the public took place in June and October.

Four letters of objection were received highlighting concerns on commoners rights and the availability of land for sheep grazing, the impacts on the National Park, noise and night-time working. Three letters have been received in support of the application on the grounds it will create employment opportunities for young people, preserve Welsh culture and language and the retention of local jobs.